Protolabs, a leading provider of rapid manufacturing solutions for custom parts prototyping, has recently joined forces with Mindsett, a prominent facilities management company in the UK, to introduce PRISM—an innovative asset monitoring device that blends behavioural science principles with cutting-edge technology to revolutionize energy consumption practices.
The PRISM device, a groundbreaking creation, not only empowers users to achieve a minimum of 20% savings on energy bills but also aims to instigate long-term behavioral changes surrounding energy usage. By attaching directly to a client’s distribution board, the device can monitor over 30 channels per unit. Data is collected wirelessly through Wi-Fi connectivity and processed using advanced machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms. This synergy allows the system to furnish detailed insights on assets and energy consumption in a user-friendly manner, facilitating behavioral adjustments to promote energy efficiency.
Originally conceptualized with an overseas supply chain in mind to leverage cost efficiencies in China, the Mindsett team pivoted due to concerns over potential environmental impacts. Consequently, they sought collaboration with Protolabs, a UK-based company, to actualize their vision.
Protolabs undertook the task of injection molding five essential components that constitute the PRISM casing: a PCBA inner unit cover, a lower case, a button, a clear lens for LED illumination, and a top case.
Gemma Conway, Mindsett’s marketing executive, emphasized the importance of environmental considerations in the manufacturing process, particularly for a product like PRISM, designed to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability. She stated, “The decision to shift away from overseas manufacturing aligns with our commitment to environmental responsibility and ESG considerations. It was vital that our actions resonated with the core values of our product.”
Robert Musselle, the Customer Engineering Manager for EMEA at Protolabs, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, highlighting the significant impact of PRISM. He commented, “We are excited to partner with Mindsett on the development of PRISM. This device has the potential to revolutionize energy savings and foster a culture of sustainable energy practices. By transitioning manufacturing operations to the UK, we not only reduce environmental footprints but also ensure efficient and timely delivery.”
The partnership between Protolabs and Mindsett signifies a step towards sustainable innovation, combining technological advancements with environmental consciousness to create impactful solutions in the realm of energy management and asset monitoring.